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How Getting Divorced, & Losing 40 Pounds Totally Changed Her Life
And Supercharged Her Business
Maggie Sellers
11 Jun
In partnership with
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What happens when you stop hiding, start healing, and finally show up for yourself—and your brand?
In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Allison McNamara, founder of MARA Beauty, to unpack the full spectrum of personal and professional transformation—from coming out and getting divorced to finally stepping into her power as both a founder and a face.
For the first time, Allison publicly shares what it meant to come out, and how embracing her identity brought her closer to her community and more aligned with her creative voice. She also opens up about the decision to end her marriage, lose 40 pounds, and finally claim her space in front of the camera—not just behind the brand.
This conversation goes deep into how these shifts impacted MARA’s success, including three Sephora sellouts, a commitment to owning her formulas, and how leading with clarity and confidence became her greatest business strategy.
Whether you're navigating identity, rebuilding after a pivot, or just wondering how to stop playing small—this one’s for you.
You can connect with Allison on Instagram: @allisonmcnamara, Tiktok: @allisonmcnamara_, & LinkedIn: Allison McNamara.
To win the perpertually SOLD OUT Mara Pearl Peptide Glaze share this week’s episode on social and tag @maggiesellers, @hotsmartrich, @allisonmcnamara and @themarabeauty!
What You'll Hear In This Episode:
Coming out helped her come into her power. For the first time, Allison publicly shares what it meant to come out—and how embracing her identity brought her closer to her community and more aligned with her creative voice.
Choosing yourself is the first pivot. Ending her marriage wasn’t just a personal decision—it was the catalyst for a full-scale transformation. Allison shares how reclaiming her life also supercharged her business.
Wellness isn’t vanity—it’s velocity. Losing 40 pounds helped her feel mentally sharp and physically strong. That internal shift translated into leadership clarity and outward momentum for MARA.
You can be both the founder and the face. Stepping into visibility changed everything. Once Allison began showing up for the brand—not just behind it—MARA hit a new growth curve.
Owning your formulas is a power move. Allison breaks down why MARA has always developed and owned its formulas—no white labeling, no shortcuts. It’s the long-term play that builds real brand equity and IP value.
3x Sephora sellouts are no accident. MARA’s viral moments didn’t happen by luck. Allison shares the behind-the-scenes decisions—from reformulations to community storytelling—that helped the brand sell out three times at Sephora.
Your business grows when you stop playing small. From sharper campaigns to higher ad spend, Allison’s mindset shift led to bold bets—and the returns followed.
Quiet confidence can be a competitive edge. MARA’s success is rooted in product integrity, founder honesty, and long-game thinking. Allison shows that you don’t have to be the loudest voice to build one of the most respected brands in beauty.
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♡ Sculpt and Glow ♡
My body routine starts with something light and luxe. It leaves my skin soft, sculpted, and just a little sun-kissed.
♡ Bright Mornings ♡
Every day starts with a few drops of something brightening—it’s my glow-up in a bottle, and it makes makeup optional.
♡ Lip Ritual ♡
I always keep a little pot of moisture nearby. It’s plush, subtle, and perfect for no-makeup days.
♡ Effortless Edge ♡
My closet is full of easy staples with just the right amount of attitude. Think oversized blazers, relaxed denim, and cool-girl tees that do all the work for you.
♡ Luxe on My Arm ♡
This carry-all is structured, timeless, and makes me feel like the main character in my day.
♡ Morning Muffin Magic ♡
My favorite low-carb treat pairs perfectly with coffee. It’s warm, satisfying, and tastes like a hug.
♡ Move to Feel ♡
Even a short workout gets my head right. It’s not about punishment—it’s about energy and clarity.
♡ Skin Reset Ritual ♡
A good facial with someone who knows skin is my ultimate reset. I walk out glowing and calm.
♡ Matcha Moments ♡
I swapped coffee for this creamy green sip. It’s smooth, energizing, and somehow feels more… elegant?
♡ Lighten + Lift ♡
When I need a full-body refresh, this massage style is my secret weapon. It’s detoxifying and totally addictive.
♡ Hot, Smart, Rich Tips ♡
♡ Hot Hack ♡
Shani Darden facials—if I could go every week, I would. They’re my favorite.
♡ Smart Hack ♡
Journaling every morning—just stream of consciousness. I get so many ideas for product names or creative campaigns that way.
♡ Rich Tip ♡
I didn’t pay myself for years so I could put everything into MARA. Playing the long game really paid off.
♡ Favorite Part of The Conversation ♡
I loved talking about the origins of MARA—it’s named after the sea and also this Buddhist demon that tries to distract you. That duality really reflects how I approach business and life. And honestly, it felt good to share what it’s been like building this while doing IVF.
♡ About The Guest ♡
Allison McNamara — Founder of MARA Skincare
Allison McNamara is the founder of MARA, the award-winning clean skincare brand known for its innovative, algae-powered formulas and minimalist approach to beauty. Inspired by a trip to the Sea of Marmara and the Gaelic roots of her last name, Allison launched MARA in 2018 with one hero product—Universal Face Oil—and has since grown it into a best-selling line available at SEPHORA, Cult Beauty, REVOLVE, and more.
Before launching MARA, Allison was a journalist and TV host, appearing on the TODAY Show, POPSUGAR Now, and even hosting the Oscars red carpet for ABC. She brings that same storytelling spirit to skincare, creating products that are as effective as they are beautiful.
With its signature three-step routine—Cleanse, Treat, Hydrate—MARA is a modern take on classic skincare, blending clinically-proven marine ingredients with luxurious textures. Allison’s mission? To simplify your routine and deliver glowing, radiant skin you can trust.
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